A recently retired Boeing 757 rests at a Roswell, N.M., salvage facility -- or airplane "boneyard" -- on Aug. 5, 2015. Retired planes are sent there until a new buyer is found or until they are raided for parts and eventually scrapped. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren, USA TODAY

Question: Is it possible that Boeing could bring back the 757 into production without having to design a whole new airplane? So many airlines now seem to want the 757.

– Dave, Foxboro, Massachusetts

Answer:I doubt it. The 757 first flew in February 1982. The improvements in aerodynamics, flight controls and computer technology since then (35 years) would require a new design.

Q: Do you think Boeing should revive the 757 program?

– Joe, Peoria, Illinois

A:The 757 is one of my favorite airplanes. Economics forced it into retirement, therefore, I understand that it is an airplane of the past, not the future. No, I do not think Boeing should revive the 757, but it is possible Boeing could build a new model to fill the demand for a 180- to 200-seat high-performance airliner.

A:The B757 outperforms the A321 and the B737, particularly at high-altitude airports in warm/hot weather. But it burns significantly more fuel. So far, more airlines have bought the A321 than the B737 MAX 10.

It depends on the routes and the desired load to determine which is “better.” They are both very good airplanes.

Q: 737-800 or 900 vs. 757-200: Isn't the power (thrust) to weight difference significant enough that the bigger 737s have to reduce maximum takeoff weight by limiting seats used or by drastic reductions in fuel and range? Which would you rather be in command of on a summer departure from LGA, BOS or DCA destined for LAX or SEA?

– G Cornwal, Portland, Oregon

A: The 757 has a higher thrust to weight ratio, resulting in higher performance than the 737-800/900. The new generation 737s (600/700/800/900) have a modern wing and more powerful engines, resulting in much better performance than earlier models. The need to reduce fuel or payload is decreased by these improvements.

I would gladly command either a new generation 737 or a 757 for the flight you describe. If I had to pick one it would be the 757 because it is one of my favorite airplanes.

Q: John, I’m a captain for Delta (former NWA) with over 10,000 hours in the 757-200 and 300. It's not an understatement that the 200 has incredible performance. Of the narrow body aircraft, it is far and away the best ever built out there. It was a true pleasure to fly it. Not the most advanced in glass technology, but a nice level that was easy to use.

– Robert, Colorado

A:Your vast experience in the 757 is a testament to the success of the airplane.

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You've got questions about how airplanes, airlines and pilots work and Captain John Cox has answers. Each week, he clears up confusion and mysteries for passengers in his USA TODAY column. Click forward and be enlightened. Miguel Villagran/Getty Images

Question: What do airline dispatchers do? Answer: The dispatcher, who works out of the airline's operations center, is jointly legally responsible for the flight with the captain. Dispatchers are vital members of the operations and safety team. They provide weather updates and airport updates to the flight crew. Additionally, they will watch traffic flow for impact of weather or traffic congestion. Their training is very similar to pilots – just without the flight training. Delta Air Lines

Question: When do pilots send the request for ground crew? Answer: Ground crews are actually pretty proactive. For incoming flights, they are ready to move into place once the plane taxis in since they know it has already touched down. For departing planes, once the jet bridge is retracted, they know pushback will occur very soon. YakobchukOlena/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: How do pilots avoid anvil-head clouds and other signs of thunderstorms while flying at night? Answer: Pilots use onboard weather radar to remain clear of thunderstorms during day and night operations. Lightning is actually easier to see at night, which shows the pilots the location of the storm. Alan Diaz/AP

Question: Can pilots nap, read books or watch movies in the cockpit? Answer: It depends on the country and the situation. When there are augmented crews and a rest area (like the one seen here) on board, pilots who are off duty can nap or read. If there are only two pilots, then controlled napping depends on the country. Some allow it (done properly, it really helps to lessen fatigue), while such as the U.S. prohibit it. Rathke/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: What does the crew eat on long flights? Answer: Pilot meals vary from airline to airline. Usually on long flights, the crew meals are prepared in a similar way to passenger meals. The flight attendants bring the meals to the pilots once the the passengers have been served. The menu varies depending on the departure airport and the catering request. IPGGutenbergUKLtd/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Recently, a Delta passenger got his flight all to himself. Public relations bonanzas aside, that seems like a money-losing move for the airline. How do they decide whether it's worth it to fly a near-empty plane? Does there need to be a minimum number of passengers? Answer: Thedecision to fly an empty plane is actually based on much more than headcount. Airlines also factor in maintenance schedules, the next day's flights, weather-induced logistical chances and paid cargo. RyanFletcher/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: I've been on a lot of flights where the plane seems to turn soon after takeoff. Why is this and is there a minimum altitude before it can be done? Answer: It is routine to turn shortly after takeoff. Common reasons include noise abatement rules and avoiding an airplane departing on a parallel runway. Most operators do not turn until reaching 400 feet to ensure good separation from the ground in the event of a problem. However, there are some special cases where a turn is needed earlier, such as at Washington Reagan National Airport. When departing north, a turn is required very soon after takeoff to avoid the prohibited airspace over the Mall and White House. Terraxplorer/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: How dangerous is a cracked cockpit windshield? When is it most likely to happen (takeoff, cruising altitude or landing) and what can be done about it? Answer: Windshields consist of two panes of thick glass with a plastic layer between for heating. Either pane is capable of holding full pressure in the other is lost. In my experience, more of the windshields cracked during climb than in other phases of flight. If this occurs, pilots will descend to reduce the pressure and plan on a diversion if necessary. DANIEL SLIM, AFP/Getty Images

Question: There are so many reports of pets dying on flights. Are pets safe and comfortable in baggage? I have stopped flying to protect my pet. Answer: Aircraft designers know that live animals will be shipped so they ensure there is adequate airflow and heat for them. If you are shipping an animal it is prudent to ensure the connecting airport is not extremely hot or cold during the time the animal will be there. All of us protect our pets and airlines realize how the responsibility that comes with accepting a pet for shipment. Talk to the airline staff and plan your trip to minimize connection times without extreme weather conditions. Mary Altaffer, AP

Question: What guidelines are in place in case planes are flying at the same altitude and approaching each other? Answer: Air traffic control prevents airplanes from approaching each other at the same altitude. Airplanes also have traffic avoidance systems that will have one airplane climb and the other descend. Jeff Chiu/AP

Question: How are runway assignments determined for arriving or departing flights when there are multiple active runways in use? Answer: Air traffic control will try and use the runway that points toward the wind when possible. Some airport layouts make it much faster for certain runways to be used for landing and others for take off. The controllers know what configuration works best. The goal of air traffic controllers is to try to expedite the traffic flow while keeping it safe for aircraft. ANDREW GOMBERT/EPA-EFE

Question: Calling a family pet an emotional support animal is rife for abuse. If you need a support animal or blanket to feel secure while flying, it might be time to consider the train. How can we Think you can get the people that write the laws to use common sense? Answer: Airlines are slowly making progress in requiring more documentation for all animals traveling on board. Too many passengers have abused the emotional support animal rule and it can have a safety implication during an evacuation. Julio Cortez/AP

Question: How secure are planes in the air from being hacked by technology brought onboard by passengers bring on planes? Answer: Critical flight computers are shielded and not accessible by the internet or passenger electronics, making them very secure. John Locher/AP

Question: How will Boeing promote and market the safe return of the 737 Max on its first day back in the air? Answer: It is impossible to know at this point. Each operator will handle the return to service differently. Some will make a media event out of showing the safety and reliability of it while others will attempt to make it “business as usual.” JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images

Question: Once the 737 Max is approved to fly again, can individual pilots choose not to take assignments for that aircraft? Will they be "punished" for refusing? Answer: If they are assigned to the MAX fleet, then they are expected to fly it. However, It is possible for them to change the fleet to which they are assigned. I do not know of any pilots that would not fly the MAX once it is recertified, tested and returned to service. Boeing

Question: What do the pilots do if there's a loss of power? What's the point of no returns? Answer: The total loss of power is extraordinarily rare. The first action would be to relight the engines. If that failed, a ditching would be required, as was the case with 2009's "Miracle on the Hudson." After a bird strike disabled both engines minutes after taking off from New York's LaGuardia Airport, Captain Chelsey Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles glided their US Airways Airbus A320 into the Hudson River in what was called the "most successful ditching in aviation history." Bebeto Matthews/AP

Question: Recently, a 777 had an engine failure on takeoff at Atlanta. It seems like there would be extra strain on the functioning engine while under such a heavy load compensating for the failure. Would that engine also undergo inspection, or is that not even a concern? Answer: All twin-engine airplanes are designed to fly with one engine inoperative so there is no additional strain on the operating engine. Unless there was an indication that the remaining engine had exceeded temperature or speed ranges during such a flight there would be no concern and no need for inspection. CARLOS CALVO/UNITED AIRLINES

Question: Is it typical for pilots to have to burn off fuel on a flight prior to landing? I was on a completely full flight on an Embraer 190 between Philadelphia and Raleigh-Durham where the pilot had to lower the landing gear and fly around prior to landing. I've flown quite a bit and do not recall ever experiencing this. Answer: This happens occasionally. On some flights when the passenger load and cargo load is heavy, the flight is planned to land at the maximum landing weight. If they wind up burning less than what was forecast, then the pilots have to burn off the excess fuel to reduce the weight. Lowering the landing gear and to extend the flight accomplishes the needed fuel burn. frankpeters, Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Some routes always seem to have dramatic air pockets, such as flying into Las Vegas. Are there some routes that are just more susceptible to sudden drops? Answer: I suspect you are feeling the effects of thermal heating causing turbulence. In places like Las Vegas where there are mountains and high heating, turbulence is more common. Usually, this occurs at lower altitudes although mountain waves can occur at cruise altitudes. Diy13, Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Do all the electronics inside the aircraft such as the reading lights, TV screens and fans impact the engine or drain the battery? Answer: Modern airplanes have very large generators capable of supplying electrical power for all the modern devices. Each engine has at least one large generator the auxiliary power unit has a generator and most airline jets have a ram air turbine that can produce electricity. There are batteries. too. The engine generators do cause the engine to burn more fuel but it is not a large amount. Panasonic

Question: Why can't airlines equip the entire cabin with active noise-canceling technology (not just headphones)? That would make long-haul flights more comfortable than pastel mood lighting. Answer: I have seen active noise-canceling technology in business jets and turboprop aircraft but not in airliners so far. The technology is available but I suspect cost and weight are the reasons it has not been installed yet. Beats by Dre

Question: In today's modern aircraft, does turbulence make it physically tiring to control a plane or does fly by wire and automation take away physical exertion? Answer: Flying modern jets is not overly physical. The automation and powered flight controls have made it much easier and less physically stressful. Elaine Thompson/AP

Question: Do both pilots fly the plane under normal circumstances or only when there's an emergency? Answer: Both pilots are fully qualified to fly the airplane. Usually, one pilot flies the airplane while the other performs the duties of the monitoring pilot, such as communicating with air traffic control, handling checklists and overseeing the flight path. The breakdown of tasks between the flying pilot and monitoring pilot is very clearly defined but pilots are trained to perform both. CLEMENT SABOURIN, AFP/Getty Images

Question: Is there any specific way flights are numbered? Answer: Each airline has their own way of numbering flights. That said, there does have to be some coordination between companies to prevent different carriers from having the same flight number in the same airspace. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren/Special to USA TODAY

Question: Why don’t airlines stress strongly to passengers that they should leave overhead bins closed during emergency evacuations? Answer: Passengers who attempt to retrieve overhead luggage during and evacuation put themselves and others at risk. It is critical that people leave their luggage and concentrate on getting out of the airplane quickly. Airlines try to emphasize this, but too many passengers do not pay attention. Curtis Compton/AP

Question: While traveling on a Boeing 737-800, I noticed there was no window in Row 10 on the left side. What is the reason for this? Answer: There is often a missing window on jets since the air conditioning vents run up the wall there. Some airplanes also leave a window out in line with the fan section of the engine incase of a blade separation. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: When the cabin door closes and the cabin staff announces for all cellular devices to be placed in airplane mode or turned off, some passengers feel this announcement does not pertain to them. They keep talking. Is it acceptable to rat them out to cabin staff? Answer: Agreed, there are passengers who do not comply and get belligerent when a flight attendant does their job of reminding them of the rule. Matt Slocum/AP

Question: Is there a speed limit for planes while taxiing on the taxiway? Answer: Some airports have speed limits but more often airplanes will have a limitation in the flight manual for maximum taxi speeds. This is usually around 30 knots. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren for USA TODAY

Question: Why do jumbo jets ascend at a lower rate? It takes them much longer to get to the desired altitude. Answer: Large four-engine airplanes are slower to climb than two-engine airplanes due to the amount of excess thrust of two-engine airplanes. If a two-engine airplane experiences a loss of thrust in one engine (50% of the total thrust), it must still be able to climb and continue flight safely. A loss of thrust for a four-engine airplane only results in a 25% loss of thrust. The twin-engine plane has more excess thrust when all engines are operating and therefore climbs faster. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren for USA TODAY

Question: When a plane is experiencing severe turbulence, it's difficult to judge how far "down" it appears to be falling or dropping – inches or feet? Answer: In heavy turbulence it can feel like the airplane is going up and down long distances, when in reality it is only a few feet. Humans notice the rate of change (how fast you are going up or down) more than the magnitude of the excursion. Very rarely, turbulence can cause a change of a few hundred feet, but most times it is less than 100 feet. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren for USA TODAY

Question: If aircraft weight is so important, why aren't aircraft windows made larger? Aren't those materials lighter than the rest of the aircraft? Answer: The structure around the window is heavier. If you look at airplanes designed as freighters, they do not have windows. This is done to reduce the weight and maintenance costs. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Planes making a sideways landing in a strong crosswind make for remarkable videos. How does the airplane landing gear handle the added stress of such landings? Answer: If you look carefully, the airplane will yaw before touchdown to be more closely aligned with the runway. The pilot uses the rudder to reduce the crab angle just prior to touchdown. This reduces the sideload on the main landing gear. During certification flights the manufacturers demonstrate crosswind landing without yawing prior to touchdown to test the capability of the landing gear. While the gear is designed to take the load, it is a lot of force. Valery Hache, AFP/Getty Images

Question: Why don't airliners "power back" from the gate? Answer: In the 1980s, airliners with aft-mounted engines (e.g., DC-9, MD-80 and B727) used powerback in an effort to reduce the number of ground personnel required. Today, most large airliners have underwing-mounted engines; they are too close to the ground and have a potential to ingest debris during a powerback. Powerback has safety risks; only a few aft-mounted engine jets could do it. I do not know of any airline using that procedure today. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren,special to USA TODAY

Question: In the cockpit are all those buttons and knobs really used or necessary to fly the plane? Answer: Yes, the buttons and knobs are used to control the airplane in normal flight or when there is a problem with a system. While they look confusing to the layperson the pilots know exactly what each one does and how it is to be used. Ben Mutzabaugh, USA TODAY

Question: Recently there seems to be an increase in aircraft sliding off a taxiway or runway. Are the conditions not safe enough for them to be flying or is it just a matter of the ground crew needing to do a better job of clearing the surface? Answer: In very inclement weather with slick taxiways, the chances of aircraft sliding off the paved surfaces increase. It can be safe to operate the aircraft based on previous reports but still find that the taxiway is slicker than anticipated due to changing conditions. Pilots taxi very carefully when conditions exist where sliding is possible. Ground crews do a wonderful job of clearing snow and ice from the surfaces, but there are limits to what they can do. Ryan Soderlin, Omaha World-Herald via AP

Question: How safe are commercial airports with short runways? Answer:Commercial airports certified by the Federal Aviation Administration's 14 CFR Part 139 are very safe. Runway length is carefully calculated before every takeoff and landing with good safety margins. Pilots know that the runway length is short, so they pay special attention to touchdown points and approach speeds. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren, special for USA TODAY

Question: Why are airlines still using 50-plus-year-old black boxes, when the technology currently exists to transmit all the same cockpit data and voice information in real time via satellite communications? Answer: While technically possible, there are significant issues with real-time up-streaming of data. Who owns the data? What can it be used for? Can it be hacked? The Digital Flight Data and Cockpit Voice recorders have proven to be very successful over the decades. There is reluctance to lose this proven technology. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren for USA TODAY

Question: How would you suggest a passenger cope with turbulence, physically and emotionally? Answer: The best steps to take physically are to remain seated with your seat belt securely fastened. This will prevent you being bounced around in the seat. If you want to sit in the area of the airplane that moves the least during turbulence, then choose a seat over the middle of the wing. The aft section of the airplane moves the most. Fear of the unknown is the root of the emotional discomfort. Some people believe that the airplane will suffer damage or even crash due to turbulence. The facts prove otherwise. Modern airplanes are designed to withstand very heavy turbulence. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren for USA TODAY

Question: What problems would cause you to make an emergency landing? Answer: A diversion to land at an alternate airport is often erroneously described as an emergency landing in media accounts. There is no emergency, but there is a change in plans. A problem with the pressurization system may require a diversion. A passenger with a medical problem may require a diversion. Some electrical problems will require a diversion. If there is an onboard fire, then an emergency landing is necessary. The difference is that in some fire conditions, the situation requires landing as soon as possible. That is an emergency. There are other conditions that require a diversion but only a very few require a true emergency landing. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: How easy is it to land the largest jumbo jets? Answer: A pilot with significant experience can transition to a very large airplane quickly. There is little difference in the handling characteristics, but the flight deck height and wingspan require practice. The 747 and A380 pilots I know characterize both as easy airplanes to fly. Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren for USA TODAY

Question: What do you think of the recent attention given to companion animals on flights? Isn’t this a source of unnecessary distraction for both pilot and crew? Answer: The issue of companion animals is a difficult one. There have been cases of animals biting passengers, getting loose, urinating and worse. The airlines had to do something due to the number of bad events that continued to rise. Current requirements for certification for the need for the animal by a doctor or physiologist appear to be reasonable. Dave Einsel for USA TODAY

Question: What is the top speed for a typical jetliner without compromising the air frame? Is there such a thing as too fast for a plane (putting scheduling & ATC aside)? Answer: Airplanes only know their speed in relation to the air around them. If there is a 200 mph tail wind, the speed of the airplane across the ground would be over 750 mph. All air frame speed limitations are based on airspeed not ground speed. Julio Cortez, AP

Question: Do pilots have to eat different meals on a flight? Answer: I have not seen an FAA requirement for a meal difference. Many airlines require different meals for members of the flight crew in the belief that it mitigates risk of food-borne illness, but it is a choice made by each operator. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: I notice that jet engine cowlings are scalloped on the rear edge on some engines and not on others. What is the purpose of the scalloped edge? Answer: Newer engines have the saw tooth cowlings. They help make the engine quieter, particularly at higher power. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: When Air Force One makes a long trip, does it refuel in air? Answer: The Air Force carefully limits the information about the specifics of an Air Force One flight. So if there were an aerial refueling we would not know about it. The specially modified B747s that fly the president are capable of aerial refueling, and the crews maintain proficiency in this skill. The direct answer to your question is that it is possible, but the information is not released. Jim Lo Scalzo, EPA-EFE

Question: Why do the cabins on passenger jets get hot when flights are delayed on the ground after leaving the gate? Does the air conditioning system rely on power or airflow levels only available in flight? Answer: When the engines are at idle, they do not produce much compressed air used for cooling. This can result in a warm cabin. The issue is the amount of air available for cooling when not in flight, where the flow is robust. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Why do airlines still have ashtrays in the bathroom doors even though smoking is prohibited? Answer: It is a certification requirement by the regulatory agencies (e.g. the FAA and EASA). This is an old requirement that came from the 1960s to ensure that a person had a place to extinguish a cigarette other than throwing it in the lavatory trash bin where it could cause a paper fire. The requirement has never been changed because there are still airlines around the world that allow smoking, and airplanes are often sold between airlines. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Why are some landings rougher than others? Is it pilot's technique? Answer: The conditions vary greatly from landing to landing. Wind, runway conditions, weight of the airplane and many other factors can cause some landings to be less smooth than others. Yes, pilot technique can be a cause, but it is usually not the only cause. Digital Vision

Question: What lifts the plane off the ground on takeoff, the pilot using a control or just reaching a certain speed for lift? Answer: Once the airplane has accelerated to the proper speed, known as rotation speed or Vr, the pilot commands the elevators on the tail to raise the nose. Small airplanes will fly off, but jets and larger airplanes have to be commanded to raise the nose. Stephanie Lecocq, EPA-EFE

Question: Can you please tell me exactly what's going on during the descent, and if it's as dangerous as it seems? Answer: It is not dangerous. Flying is the safest form of transportation ever created by mankind. Descending from cruise altitude can take many forms due to the requirements of air traffic control. In some cases, it is necessary to descend quickly to meet crossing restrictions. Pilots practice this frequently and airplanes are designed for it. There is no problem with this. A smaller airplane may provide more sensation of rapidly descending, but they usually fly nearly the same profiles as larger ones. Michael Probst, AP

Question: Some aircraft have three seats on one side of the aisle and two seats on the other side. Does this imbalance affect aircraft performance? Answer: The weight is balanced due to the aisle being offset a bit. Airplanes such as the DC-9, MD-80/90 and Boeing 717 have the 3–2 seating in the main cabin. They fly normally with no imbalance due to good design engineering. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Is there an airline pilot shortage? How does one become an airline pilot? How much do they make? Answer: Yes, there is a definite pilot shortage. It is true in all parts of aviation: airline, corporate, training, military and other types of aviation. To become an airline pilot, a candidate must have all the necessary licenses, a minimum of 1,500 flight hours and meet the entry requirements of the airline (these vary somewhat). Talk to flight training organizations to provide you with the most current information. Salaries vary depending on the operator but can reach six figures annually. Saul Loeb, AFP/Getty Images

Question: What do you think about flight training that is augmented by virtual reality? Do you anticipate that this will replace full-motion simulators in the near future? Answer: Flight training technology is expanding constantly. Simulators today are very realistic and are a form of virtual reality already. This trend is likely to continue. There is a longstanding debate regarding the need for motion in simulators. I have flown both full-motion and chair-movement simulators. So far, I prefer the full-motion simulators due to the greater fidelity. I would not expect full-motion simulators to be replaced in the near future. Gabriel Bouys, AFP/Getty Images

Question: Do pilots get bored if they must fly exactly the same route many times, or does it not matter to them? Answer: I would not say they get bored, but it can become repetitive. Pilots flying the same route, such as the New York, Boston, Washington shuttle become very, very familiar with the route. That said, no two flights are the same. Christof Stache, AFP/Getty Images

Question: Can pilots really make up time in the air? Answer: Working with air-traffic control to shorten the route is usually the best way to “make up time.” Many flights do not use the most direct line between two airports because of congestion and air-traffic control routing, so there may be opportunities to reduce distance. Most jets cruise near their maximum speed, so there’s little available speed in reserve to lower the overall flight time. Michael Probst, AP

Question: Can the 747 be saved? It's sad to see the most beautiful and iconic passenger plane ever built being retired. Answer: The 747 will remain in service in cargo operations for several more years. In passenger service, it has been overtaken economically. The new fuel-efficient twins cost so much less to operate that the 747 cannot compete. Four-engine airplanes are becoming more rare due to economics and the technical advances of the twins. This trend will continue. Justin Tallis, AFP/Getty Images

Question: If a tire blows out on the runway, what is the normal course of action? Answer: Most modern airliners have more than a single tire on a landing gear. The tires are designed to take the load if the companion tire is compromised. If the pilots know a tire has failed during takeoff at low speed, they will abort the takeoff. At high speed they will go ahead and take off, then return to land for a safety inspection. If the tire fails during landing, a normal landing is conducted. Stephen Brashear, Getty Images

Question: Are airplanes more likely to experience more turbulence during one season than another? Answer: Each season has challenges: Summer has thunderstorms and tropical storms. Autumn has late tropical storms (usually the quietest season). Winter has higher winds, blizzards and more clear air turbulence. Spring has fast-moving fronts and high winds, causing severe squall lines. Each of these events can cause turbulence. It depends on the vagaries of the year’s weather which season is worse or has more frequent turbulence. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: What do you miss most about being an airline pilot? Answer: I miss the camaraderie of many of my fellow pilots; the challenge of precisely maneuvering an airplane, particularly a jet, from place to place in inclement weather safely; the beauty of sights that only pilots get to see (e.g. St. Elmo’s fire, lines of thunderstorms at night with lightning illuminating them and sunrises over mountains and oceans from cruise altitude). Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Why are some runways not perfectly flat, and does this pose any problems during landings and takeoffs? Answer: Some runways are more challenging due to the slope and humps. The slope is included in performance calculations for takeoff and landing, as it can affect acceleration and deceleration. Humps can cause “firm” landings if the pilots are not aware of them or if they miscalculate the touchdown point. Runways are rarely the same elevation at each end, so in many cases the question is the amount of slope. There is also a need to keep taxiways at a reasonable slope, and there may be differences in elevation on a different axis. Airport designers must make compromises for efficiency and cost. Joaquin Sarmiento, AFP/Getty Images

Question: Can pilots change their route for a better view of an eclipse? Answer: A captain always has the final decision regarding the route of flight and how the airplane is being flown. Air traffic control is responsible for ensuring proper separation between airplanes on instrument flight plans. Usually pilots will follow their filed flight plan routing (with ATC approval); if it coincides with the eclipse then making a PA to advise the passengers would be routine. Business aviation or private pilots may request special routing to view the eclipse from cruising altitude and if ATC can accommodate the request they will. David Zalubowski, AP

Question: Why haven't modern airplanes been built with extensive video surveillance of the outside of the aircraft so pilots can observe all parts, especially if something goes wrong? Answer: Some large airplanes have cameras installed in strategic places. They provide valuable information for taxiing and can be used in flight if necessary. The instruments provide pilots with a good indication of problems or system malfunctions. The direct answer to your question is that the manufacturers have not determined that the benefit justifies the cost. Ted S. Warren, AP

Question: How and why is fuel dumped from a flight: Answer: Some airplanes, usually large intercontinental jets, have the capability to dump fuel in flight. This is done via valves in the wingtips that allow fuel to be pumped out and vaporized. The purpose of dumping fuel is to reduce the weight of the airplane. Most airplanes have a maximum takeoff weight that is higher than maximum landing weight. Should a problem develop soon after takeoff, the weight may be above the maximum landing weight, and dumping fuel allows the weight to be reduced quickly. LM Otero, AP

Question: When a baby is born in flight, what determines the nationality of the child? Answer: The nationality of the child is dependent on which airline the birth occurs, where it occurs and the nationality of the parents. Different countries treat births differently. In some cases, rules stipulate that where the baby is born, the nationality is offered or required. Other countries have the nationality of the parents as their rule. In some cases, the nationality of the airline can become the nationality of the baby. Based on this patchwork of rules, there are scenarios in which multiple citizenships may be available for the child from which the parents can choose. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: How does the evacuation test work? Answer: Manufacturers and airlines frequently demonstrate evacuations to regulators. This is done when a new airplane is certified or when an airline purchases a new airplane. The participants are not specially trained and represent a wide age range. They are aware that they are participating in an evacuation drill, but not given any more information. Half of the exits are blocked. The participants are not aware of which exits are blocked until the evacuation is started. Every occupant must be safely off the airplane within 90 seconds. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: How do pilots remember and then repeat all of the instructions from ATC? Answer: Listening and understanding radio calls from ATC is a learned skill. Pilots fly for many years, working with ATC. The more experienced crews fly into more complex airports. Part of the training process for first officers before upgrading to captain is experiencing many different ATC environments. Joe Raedle, Getty Images

Question: What happens when lightning strikes a plane? Answer: Lightning strikes will usually leave small burn marks or holes at the entry and exit point. Airplanes are designed to allow lightning to move along the skin of the airplane without doing damage. Occasionally, a static wick will be the victim of lightning exiting the airplane. Ethan Miller, Getty Images

Question: I believe aircraft have de-icing mechanisms. What is the difference between these and, say, a windshield defroster, and why couldn't they be used in place of having wings sprayed with de-icing solution? Answer: Inflight de-icing equipment de-ices only the leading edges of the wings, propellers and sometimes the tail. Other parts of the airplane, such as the windshield and pitot tubes, are heated to prevent ice buildup. On the ground, ice forms on the entire surface of the airplane, resulting in significant weight and the distortion of the airflow, which is potentially dangerous. Consequently, ice must be completely removed from the airplane before takeoff. Heated fluid knocks the ice off the airplane, then a thick gel is applied, so any ice or snow that falls will not stick to the airplane and will blow off during the takeoff roll. This gel is effective for only a limited time, requiring pilots to refer to tables to determine how long the period between de-icing and takeoff can be. Trying to heat the entire airplane would require a very large amount of hot air and a very heavy mechanism; therefore, it is not efficient. Alexa Welch Edlund, Richmond Times-Dispatch via AP

Question: The airlines are adding more seats to their planes. Are they jeopardizing passenger safety? Answer: No, each airplane is certified for a maximum number of passengers based on the ability to evacuate all passengers and crew within 90 seconds. Most airlines do not have the maximum number of seats installed, so an increase in the seats that is still below the maximum certified number does not jeopardize safety. Ted S. Warren, AP

Question: What is yaw, and how does it affect an airplane? Answer: Yaw is movement of the nose of the aircraft perpendicular to the wings (left or right). It can cause the heading to change and can create asymmetrical lift on the wings, causing one wing to rise and the other to lower (roll). Jets with swept wings have a natural tendency to yaw, requiring an automatic small input to the rudder to counter it. The device that inputs this small rudder is known as the yaw damper. Carolyn Kaster, AP

Question: I've flown on the Airbus 380 several times. It seems to me the taxi speed is slower than smaller equipment. Is this an illusion of size — larger objects appear to be moving slower — and the higher position of seats in the upper deck? Or are there reasons, such as fuel-use and braking concerns, that make it taxi more slowly? Answer: The A380 is a very large airplane, which has a wingspan of more than 260 feet. The long wingspan means the jet can taxi only on certain designated taxiways and will have the wingtip pass closer to objects and other airplanes. Consequently, A380 captains do tend to taxi more slowly. The weight of the airplane causes increased stopping distances. You are correct that being in the upper deck and the sheer size of the airplane make it appear to move more slowly, but large airplanes do tend to taxi a bit slower. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Recently, it has been rumored that some airlines are considering using the Airbus A321-LR for trans-Atlantic flights. Do you think narrow-body aircraft will be the future for international travel? Answer: It is possible that several airlines could begin flying A321LRs on trans-Atlantic routes. The airplane has the range to make the flight. The Boeing 757 has been used on less-traveled trans-Atlantic routes for many years. Both are single-aisle airplanes, also known as narrow-body aircraft. As the service to secondary cities continues to increase, the ability to fly non-stop instead of connecting in a hub to a wide-body aircraft will be very appealing. The planes will not replace the wide-body aircraft flown between the large cities. There is growing discussion about low-cost trans-Atlantic airline service. In the past, it was not successful; however, there are several budget international airlines entering the market or interested in doing so. Ben Mutzabaugh, USA TODAY

Question: Is over-reliance on automation increasing the number of commercial airline accidents? Answer: No, the number of accidents is decreasing. Over-reliance on automation has become a factor in a larger percentage of accidents, but the overall number is trending downward. The appropriate use of automation and maintaining manual flying skills are focus items for aviation. Training has to include extensive use of automation and manual flying. Alexander Hassenstein, Getty Images

Question: Can a larger aircraft land on a shorter than recommended runway in an emergency? Answer: Yes, it can be done. Every airplane has a required runway length due to the physics of decelerating. It is much shorter than many people realize. When landing on very short runways, the pilots will very carefully control the speed, touch down on the touchdown point and use all of the deceleration devices (brakes, spoilers and reverse thrust). Rob Griffith, AP

Question: Where does my bag go when I check it? Answer: From the time a bag is checked in, a series of belts and carts transport it to the waiting airplane. If your airplane is a larger one, the bag will be loaded into a container to make it faster to load onto the airplane. Security screening of the bag occurs before loading to ensure the safety of the flight. When the loading begins, it is sent up via belt loader or in the container into the cargo hold where it is kept warm (sort of) and pressurized during the fight. At your destination, the reverse occurs. The belt loader or container loader takes the bag to a cart where it is sent to the terminal to meet you. Patrick Semansky, AP

Question: When the announcement is made that, "The pilot has begun his initial approach," why is the word initial used? It implies there may be more than one approach. Answer: It is a differentiation of the segments of the approach. There is an initial part of the approach and a final phase of the approach. The final phase is often the last 5 miles when the airplane is aligned with the runway and is descending toward it. Justin Tallis, AFP/Getty Images

Question: Why do airlines on domestic flights carry life vests, with all the extra weight that entails? Answer: Airplanes often fly domestic and overwater flights in the same day. It is not uncommon for an airplane to fly several domestic flights, then fly to Bermuda or the Caribbean. Returning from the overwater flights, it then flies other domestic legs. One of the NTSB recommendations from the accident in the Hudson was to have all airliners have life vests available for passengers due to the large number of lakes and other bodies of water over which airplanes fly. Edouard H. R. Gluck, AP

Question: Right after takeoff, it often seems that the pilot slows down and the plane drops somewhat. Why is that? Answer: The sensation of slowing down is really one of slowing the rate of acceleration; this is due to reducing the thrust after takeoff to the climb setting. The sensation of “dropping” comes from the retraction of the flaps and slats. The rate of climb is reduced, causing it to feel like a descent. Josep Lago, AFP/Getty Images

Question: Can you explain all the different lights on a commercial aircraft and their purpose? Answer: Lights vary on airplanes, but all have red and green lights on the wing tip, and a white light visible from behind (it can be on the tail or aft part of the wing tip). Additionally there are landing lights to provide illumination of the runway during landing. A taxi light provides a lower-power light to see taxiways; the taxi light can be supplemented by special lights to help make sharp turns. There are often lights that illuminate the wings so the pilots can inspect for ice build-up. The red flashing lights on the top and bottom are known as anti-collision lights. Many airplanes have bright flashing white lights called strobes making them easier to see. Comstock/Getty Images

Question: How bad does turbulence have to be before we should be freaking out?? Answer: Unexpected turbulence is uncomfortable, but is not a safety risk to the airplane. Airplanes are designed for it. The last case of a turbulence-caused accident was in the 1960s in Japan. There are some similarities with a boat hitting a wave in water. One difference is that the airplane may experience more vertical displacement, making it feel more severe. Most humans do not like the sensation of negative Gs, which you feel when the airplane drops suddenly. That sensation is caused by the vestibular system in your ears. In everyday life we do not experience negative Gs often, making the sensation unusual and scary to some people. This is a normal reaction. Pilots have experienced this sensation many times and have no problem flying the airplane safely. Christophe Testi, Getty Images/Hemera

Question: How were airport codes assigned? Answer: There are two different types of airport codes: the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). ICAO uses a four-letter code, in which the first letter is the country code. The USA uses K for its code. The New York airports are KJFK for Kennedy, KLGA for LaGuardia and KEWR for Newark. These codes are used for the filing of flight plans and for air traffic control purposes. The IATA codes are used for ticketing and are three letters. Chicago O'Hare is ORD, London Heathrow is LHR, and London Gatwick is LGW. The IATA codes are used for baggage, too. Jason Kempin, Getty Images for #TackleEbola

Question: Why is there no window next to my seat? Answer: When jets are certified, one consideration is the consequence of a catastrophic engine failure, where rotating engine components are not contained within the cowling. In the very rare event of uncontained parts puncturing through the cowling, it is possible that they could strike a window causing damage and decompression. This area is strengthened, and the area where the window would normally be is solid. Jeremy Martin via AP

Question: Do airplanes have a hard time taking off in hot weather? Answer: I would not say they have a hard time, but performance is definitely limited by the heat. Hot air does not allow the wing to create as much lift (fewer air molecules); therefore, the weight must be reduced to maintain the required climb path. Very high temperatures such as Arizona, the Middle East or other desert environments require careful preflight planning. Rob Schumacher, The Arizona Republic

Question: Is it safer to be on a smaller plane or larger one? Answer: It is not possible to make a safety differentiation between small or large airplanes because the terms are vague. Regional airline-size airplanes have a somewhat higher accident rate than do larger airline jets. Turboprops have a higher accident rate than jets. Airline jets have some models having lower accident rates than others, but size is not the determining factor. Aviation is the safest form of transportation. This makes it very hard to say that one airplane is significantly safer than another. They are both safe — even if one type has a slightly higher accident rate, that rate is still infinitesimal. Mark Wilson, Getty Images

Question: How long will supplemental oxygen last after the masks drop in an emergency? Answer: On typical airliners oxygen generators will last 10 to 14 minutes. That is more than enough time to descend to 10,000 feet or the lowest altitude above the terrain. Airplanes can descend very rapidly, which means the need for supplemental oxygen lasts only a few minutes. Getty Images

Question: Why does it take so long to open the exit door? Answer: Once the airplane arrives at the gate and is properly chocked, the captain shuts down the engines and switches off the “Fasten Seat Belt” light. The anti-collision light (this is the red blinking light on the top and bottom of the airplane) is switched off, informing ground crew that it is safe to approach the airplane. Ground crew members then begin to position the jet bridge, aligning it with the door. Once the jet bridge is mated to the aircraft and the cover is in place, the ground agent either opens the door or taps on it for the flight attendant to open it. Once the door is initially opened, the ground agent assists in fully opening it and ensuring that it is locked in the open position. This is the generic procedure for most jet airliners. Regional or smaller airplanes have a slightly different procedure as their stairs are built into the door. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: How do runways get their names? Answer: The runway number is the approximate magnetic heading. As an example, runway 35 is pointing approximately 350 degrees magnetic. The opposite end of the runway is 17 or approximately 170 degrees magnetic. When there are two parallel runways pointing in the same direction, they are designated with the proper number and a left or right identifier. Two runways pointed east are named 09 Left and 09 Right. The 09 indicate they are pointed 090, due east, and the left and right identify the parallels. When there are three runways, they use the same process but include a “Center” designation. If there are four runways or more, the airport will change one of the runway numbers to help differentiate them. As an example, the north runways pointed to the southwest at LAX are named 24 Left and Right, while the south runways are named 25 Left and Right. The runways point in the same direction but the difference allows pilots to know which runway to use. Digital Vision/Getty Images

Question: What efforts are being employed to ensure computer hacking doesn't negatively influence modern aviation from the ground or while in flight? Answer: Computer security is taken very seriously. Airplane flight control and flight management computers are segregated and hardened against outside intrusions. It is possible a hacker might interfere with an in-flight entertainment system, but those and the onboard wireless system have separate pathways from the flight computers. Improving security is an ongoing effort by manufacturers, operators and the regulators. Mario Tama, Getty Images

Question: Why is shipping lithium-ion batteries considered dangerous, yet almost all passengers have cellphones with them? What's the difference? Answer: A lithium battery installed in a device is less likely to enter thermal runaway and, if it does, there are few batteries nearby to be driven into thermal runaway. Shipping lithium batteries on passenger aircraft poses a risk that is higher than many operators find acceptable because of the rapid expansion of a fire when lithium batteries enter thermal runaway. FAA via AP

Question: Are there routes over the continental U.S. that tend to experience more turbulence than others? Answer: In some conditions when there are high surface winds, crossing the Rocky Mountains can be turbulent. The mountain waves this condition creates are more pronounced around larger mountains, making the airways crossing them more turbulent. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Does it matter how old a plane is? Answer: If an older airplane is properly maintained, it is safe. The age is not a factor; it is the quality of maintenance that matters. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: Why don’t airplanes have external cameras for the pilots to use when taxiing or parking to better guide the plane? Answer: Some of the larger airplanes (e.g. Airbus A340 and A380, and the Boeing 747-8) have cameras to help assist the pilots on taxiways and at gates. Smaller airplanes (e.g. B737 and A320) do not need them as the flight crew can see the wingtips. The widebody airplanes that do not have cameras installed by the manufacturer require careful positioning by the captain during taxiing and parking. It has not been cost-effective to retrofit these airplanes with cameras. Jasper Colt, USA TODAY

Question: When an aircraft is descending toward landing, it seems some planes fly down nose pointed downward, and some seem to float down with the nose pointed up. Is this true, and if so, why the difference? Answer: When configured for landing, the position of the nose is determined by whether there are leading edge slats installed. Airplanes with leading edge slats (movable panels on the front of the wing) approach the runway with the nose up, while airplanes without slats approach with the nose down. Mario Tama, Getty Images

Question: Have you ever gotten lost at an airport, considering the congested nature of some U.S. airports? Answer: Taxiing, particularly at a large airport in limited visibility at night, can be very challenging. Many of the modern airliners have electronic maps with the position of the airplane displayed, which really helps. Those that do not have electronic displays require the crew to have taxi charts out and to agree on the taxi clearance and actual route. I have never been lost but have taxied slowly and been very careful to follow the taxi clearance, using input from the first officer. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: How do commercial airliners and military aircraft share the skies? Answer: Air traffic control does a great job of keeping airplanes separated, be they commercial, private or military. In addition, the military branches have special airspace they can use for training and maneuvers. Ian Hitchcock, Getty Images

Question: How could a plane land at the wrong airport? Answer: There are several contributing reasons: Humans often see what they expect to see, even when it is wrong. This is known as confirmation bias and contributes to the pilot believing it is the correct airport and runway when it is not. Two pilots and rigorous crosschecking with navigation displays normally break the confirmation bias early. Fatigue can also be a factor, as performance degradation can make it more difficult to recognize the mistake. Modern airplanes have many wonderful navigation tools helping to avoid such events. Brett Deering, Getty Images

Question: How do flight planners determine which aircraft to use on what route? Answer: Airlines have route-planning specialists to ensure that the right-size airplane is used for the route, that any maintenance considerations are taken into account, and that airplanes arrive at the proper location for inspections and service at the proper intervals. It is an art to keep the schedule running. The scheduling professionals learn the job after years of airline experience and are vital to smooth operations. Brendan Smialowski, AFP/Getty Images

Question: In freezing conditions, with ice on the runway, how safe is the anti-skid braking system on a modern jet? Answer: The modern jet’s anti-skid system is very good. I have landed on ice-covered runways many times using the anti-skid system to safely stop the airplane. Pilots listen carefully to other landing airplanes for descriptions of the stopping ability on the runway. Runway conditions can change quickly, requiring judgment and experience by the pilot to determine whether it is safe to proceed. This system has worked very well for many decades to ensure the safety of landing aircraft. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Question: I'm amazed at how the pilots steer their plane so effectively while taxiing and then stay centered on the runway's center line. How are these procedures done? Answer: Pilots keep the airplane centered on the runway using a combination of nose-wheel steering and rudder. From very basic flight training, it is a skill that is taught and evaluated frequently. It is critical to keep the airplane aligned with the center line. Some airplanes are easier than others, but a pilot is expected to master it before being released to fly. Pilots watch for drift during takeoff roll and apply rudder with the rudder pedals. On some airplanes at lower speeds it may be necessary to add a bit of nose-wheel steering to achieve the desired track. Rob Schumacher, The Arizona Republic

Question: Do airline pilots need a college degree? Answer: Pilots have varied backgrounds; most are college graduates, and many have master's degrees or PhDs. It is more important to be able to learn the material, understand it and properly apply it than to have a specific level of education. Joe Raedle, Getty Images

Question: What do the in-flight chimes mean? Answer: Different airlines use the chimes differently. Here are some uses I've witnessed in my career: A single chime could be to the flight attendants to advise them of pending choppy air, perhaps serious enough that they should be seated. Another possibility would be, "when you have time, could we please have a coffee?" Two chimes are often used to indicate the aircraft is approaching 10,000 feet in altitude. Three or more chimes could be to tell the flight attendants to be seated NOW due to reports of turbulence that were just received by the pilots. Cabin crew can also use the chimes to communicate with the flight deck. A single chime could be, "would you like coffee?" Three or more chimes to the flight deck could be, "we have a passenger with a medical problem that could require a diversion." Getty Images/iStockphoto